In these periods of unprecedented heat, our bodies are working overtime to keep cool. We find ourselves perspiring even when we're stationary. For the fortunate, a refreshing sea swim or the comfort of air conditioning provide respite. Yet, as odd as it may seem, sweating is our body's natural air conditioner. As dermatologist Whitney Bowe told the New York Times, "When we're overheated, the hypothalamus sends signals to tiny nerves on our skin, instructing sweat glands to produce sweat."
OVERSWEATING. For some individuals, excessive perspiration is a year-round issue, irrespective of the season. This could be linked to health conditions, medications (like antidepressants), or menopause, and could also indicate a condition known as hyperhidrosis. This affects between 2-3% of Italians, and usually begins in childhood or puberty. It remains a lifelong condition. Hyperhidrosis can cause discomfort, with severe cases requiring multiple outfit changes daily. Here are some dermatologist-approved strategies to manage it effectively, and bid farewell to discomfort and body odor.
1. CHOOSE BREATHABLE FABRICS.
In the scorching heat, it's crucial to wear clothes that facilitate good skin ventilation. Synthetic materials like polyester trap heat and induce sweating, while natural fabrics like cotton and linen enhance skin breathability. Many sports brands offer quick-drying apparel, and absorbent underarm pads could also be beneficial.
2. APPLY ANTIPERSPIRANTS.
Topical antiperspirant solutions are available that contain aluminum salts. These can block sweat gland ducts, preventing sweat excretion. They differ from deodorants as they control sweat production rather than merely camouflaging sweat odor. They can be applied not just to armpits but also to hands, face, and feet. "They're most effective when applied to dry skin at night, rather than post-shower in the morning," advises Bowe.
3. REGULATE YOUR DIET.
The key to avoiding excessive perspiration is to steer clear of spicy food, which induces sweating similarly to high temperatures. Caffeine, which stimulates the adrenal glands causing hands, feet, and armpits to perspire, should also be avoided. Furthermore, instead of having a large meal, it's advisable to have smaller meals, as the body generates heat (and sweat) during digestion.
4. IONTOPHORESIS – A HOME-BASED SOLUTION.
Iontophoresis is a potential solution for those with hyperhidrosis. It involves submerging the skin in water and using a device that emits an electric current to block sweat glands. This should initially be done three times weekly, and then once weekly for continued effect.
5. RESORT TO BOTOX.
Botox (yes, the same one used to smooth out wrinkles) manages to block the brain chemical that activates sweat glands. The effects last four to six months for underarms and two to three months for hands. One of the side effects is that, after several rounds of treatment, resistance to Botox may develop.
6. DESTROY SWEAT GLANDS.
Another medical treatment is called miraDry, and it is used to specifically reduce axillary sweating: after anesthetizing the skin with lidocaine, doctors use a device to apply heat to the affected area and destroy its sweat glands. It can take one to three sessions to achieve lasting results.
7. RELY ON THE SURGEON.
If none of the solutions above are right for you, all that's left is to rely on surgery: it's called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, and it involves making small incisions in the armpits and then cutting, stapling or removing the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. This is the only effective remedy that permanently resolves hyperhidrosis.
Post a Comment